The Business Leadership Podcast

Recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast hosted by Edwin Frondozo features Paul Newton, creative producer of the Future Narrator miniseries, interviewing Parag Parekh, the Chief Digital Officer at IKEA Retail. Parag discusses IKEA's ambitious and human-centered digital transformation journey. He outlines the company’s three-tier transformation process: shifting from physical to omni retailing, moving from large store formats to smaller, city-center locations, and expanding services to meet broader customer needs like second-hand furniture and financial services, while also preparing for future AI advancements. Parag shares insights from his extensive 20 years of global experience and emphasizes the importance of curiosity, responsibility, and adaptability in leadership. The conversation also touches on the impact of COVID-19, the significance of sustainability, and the critical role of corporate responsibility in the digital age. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:36 Meet Parag Parekh: IKEA's Chief Digital Officer 02:12 IKEA's Digital Transformation Journey 06:37 Personal Insights and Leadership Journey 14:11 Future of Retail and Digital Innovation 19:37 Final Thoughts and Advice for Business Leaders 20:43 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, Edwin Frondozo talks with Fred Zdan, co-founder of Ruby Loans, about revolutionizing the small business lending process with AI. Fred discusses the inefficiencies of the current lending system and how Ruby Loans aims to provide a borrower-driven digital experience. With over 30 years in the financial services industry, Fred shares insights on transforming a paper-heavy, labor-intensive system into a streamlined and customer-friendly process. He also touches on the future impact of open banking and the importance of making loan access easier for small business owners. Recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:52 Meet Fred Zdan and Ruby Loans 01:15 Challenges in Small Business Lending 03:23 Fred Zdan's Background and Vision 04:35 The Concept of Open Banking 06:03 How Ruby Loans is Revolutionizing Lending 12:05 The Future of Small Business Lending 17:38 Advice for Startups and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, guest host Paul Newton interviews Lu Zhang, founder and managing partner of Fusion Fund. Lu shares her journey from an immigrant and tech entrepreneur to a venture capitalist supporting deep tech founders. She emphasizes the critical role of diversity and understanding in driving innovation and the importance of being adaptable in uncertain times. Additionally, Lu discusses the current and future landscape of AI-powered healthcare and offers valuable advice for early-stage founders navigating today's market. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:40 Meet Lu Zhang: Investor and Entrepreneur 01:53 Lu Zhang's Experience at Web Summit Vancouver 03:18 Fusion Fund's Mission and Achievements 04:59 Challenges and Solutions in Early Stage Investment 07:34 Lu Zhang's Unique Perspective on Diversity and Innovation 13:27 The Future of Tech and AI Innovation 18:02 Advice for Founders and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast with Edwin Frondozo, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, host Paul Newton speaks with Carina Kom, co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Simply Suite Games. Carina discusses the mission of Simply Suite Games to create inclusive and emotionally resonant games that focus on positive language development and non-exploitative monetization. She also highlights the challenges faced by women in the gaming industry and the importance of creating psychologically safe and equitable working environments. The conversation touches on the significance of community support, resilience, and collaborative efforts in fostering innovation and inclusivity in the gaming sector. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:40 Meet Carina Kom: Championing Inclusive Game Design 02:33 Challenges in the Gaming Industry 04:47 Unique Perspectives and Leadership in Game Development 07:16 Creating Joyful and Meaningful Gaming Experiences 11:50 The Future of Inclusive Game Design 18:51 Final Thoughts and Advice for Founders

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, host Edwin Frondozo is joined by Casey Lau, co-host of Web Summit. Casey shares his journey from co-hosting in Hong Kong to expanding Web Summit's reach to various global locations including Portugal, Qatar, Brazil, and now Vancouver. He discusses the challenges and opportunities of bringing Web Summit to new cities, the potential for economic and ecosystem development, and the importance of startups looking globally. Highlighting Vancouver's vibrant tech and startup scene, Casey emphasizes the city's rise on the global stage and its potential impact on fostering innovation and growth. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:36 Meet Casey Lau: The Connector of Global Tech 01:33 Casey's Journey with Web Summit 03:09 Vancouver's Growing Tech Ecosystem 04:48 The Global Impact of Vancouver's Tech Scene 07:01 Challenges and Opportunities for Canadian Tech 09:27 The Unique Appeal of Vancouver 11:39 Reflecting on the Impact of Major Tech Conferences 12:08 The Unique Role of Web Summit in the Tech Ecosystem 12:40 The Importance of Promoting Tech Events 12:52 Supporting Young Entrepreneurs and Startups 13:16 The Global Influence of Tech Conferences 13:32 Economic Impact of Tech Events on Cities 15:30 The Growth of Tech Ecosystems in Canada 19:57 Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, Edwin Frondozo chats with Tom Biegala, co-founder of Bison Ventures. Tom discusses the firm's focus on investing in groundbreaking deep technology and advanced science innovations designed to solve significant global challenges. With a robust $135 million fund, Bison Ventures targets sectors like AI, synthetic biology, climate tech, and more. Tom shares his insights from over 20 years of experience in engineering and venture capital, highlighting the importance of pattern recognition and practical approaches to big audacious goals in startup growth. He emphasizes partnering with visionary entrepreneurs to create impactful technological solutions that benefit both humanity and investors. Recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:17 Meet Tom Biegala: Co-Founder of Bison Ventures 01:32 The Vision and Mission of Bison Ventures 03:15 Challenges and Opportunities in Deep Tech Investing 04:52 The Future of Human Health and Technology 06:02 Partnering with Bison Ventures 11:25 Advice for Founders and Investors 12:24 Closing Thoughts and Web Summit Insights

Recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast features Edwin Frondozo interviewing Maxime Guilbot, founder and CEO of Eco. He is a global consulting agency specializing in AI-powered digital solutions. With over 20 years of experience in AI and digital transformation, Maxime shares his insights on how businesses can navigate and thrive in the AI era. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, the future of digital transformation, and the importance of continual adaptation and innovation. Maxim also highlights the significance of a multidisciplinary approach and maintaining optimism in the ever-evolving tech landscape. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:38 Meet Maxime Guilbot: AI Pioneer 02:14 Maxime's Insights on AI and Business Transformation 03:25 Challenges and Opportunities in AI Adoption 05:01 The Future of AI and Business 06:27 Maxime's Vision and Optimism for the Future 08:17 Adapting to Exponential Growth 12:28 Maxime's Personal Journey and Business Philosophy 22:34 Final Thoughts and Advice for Business Leaders

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, host Edwin Frondozo is live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025 to explore how today's leaders shape the future, not just through strategy but through storytelling. Edwin interviews Jack Newton, founder and CEO of Clio, the pioneering company in cloud-based legal technology. Jack shares insights on Clio's journey from its inception in 2008 to becoming a global leader in legal practice management. He discusses the transformative impact of cloud and AI technologies on the legal industry, as well as his role in investing in and supporting diverse founders. Jack emphasizes the importance of AI in amplifying human productivity and reshaping work across industries. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:35 Guest Introduction: Jack Newton of Clio 02:11 The Impact of Web Summit in Vancouver 03:39 Clio's Journey and Vision 05:10 Challenges and Convictions in Legal Tech 09:11 Entrepreneurial Spirit and Early Ventures 10:45 Investing in the Future of Legal Tech 12:22 AI's Transformative Role in Business 15:34 Leadership in the Age of AI 19:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, creative producer Paul Newton and host Ed Frondozo sit down with serial entrepreneur and tech founder Tanis Jorge at the Web Summit in Vancouver 2025. Tanis, co-founder of multiple successful tech businesses and author of 'The Co-Founder's Handbook,' delves into the dynamics of co-founder partnerships. She shares insights from her two-decade-long career, emphasizing the importance of transparency, communication, and strategic alignment. The discussion touches on Tanis's experiences in building businesses with the same co-founder, the challenges of balancing personal and professional life, and practical advice for maintaining healthy co-founder relationships. Recorded live at a vibrant tech event, the episode provides valuable lessons for entrepreneurs on the significance of strong partnerships in driving business success. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:40 Meet T George: Serial Entrepreneur and Tech Founder 01:08 The Co-Founder's Handbook and Hub 01:37 Insights on Co-Founder Relationships 02:14 Web Summit Vancouver Highlights 03:15 The Co-Founders Hub: Solving Startup Challenges 05:58 Navigating Co-Founder Partnerships 09:31 Personal Stories and Challenges 17:20 Final Thoughts and Advice

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, Edwin Frondozo chats with Mohan Gulati, CEO and co-founder of Thinker AI, a company on a mission to make AI sound more human. Mohan discusses his journey, from a personal experience with home repairs to creating natural-sounding voice AI that helps businesses connect with customers anytime, anywhere. He shares insights on the tech ecosystem in Vancouver, the significance of voice AI in modern business, and the future of human-AI interaction. Mohan also gives advice for entrepreneurs and highlights Thinker AI's unique approach to making technology intuitive and accessible. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:11 Meet Mohan Gulati: CEO of Thinker AI 00:35 Mohan's Journey and Vision for Thinker AI 01:14 Life in Vancouver and the Tech Community 01:59 The Birth of Thinker AI: A Personal Story 04:20 Building the Future of Voice AI 06:51 The Unique Value Proposition of Thinker AI 08:26 The Human Element in AI 17:34 Advice for Entrepreneurs and Final Thoughts 19:32 Conclusion and Takeaways from Web Summit Vancouver

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, Edwin Frondozo chats with Göksel Turman, founder of Compendial Technology, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver. Göksel discusses his groundbreaking AI-driven platform, Matchpreneur AI, designed to facilitate effortless and accurate talent and opportunity matching for entrepreneurs, startups, and investors. Drawing from over 20 years of leadership experience across global corporations and startups, Göksel sheds light on the importance of efficient and collaborative tools in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. He shares his journey, the inspiration behind the platform, and the impact he hopes it will have on democratizing entrepreneurship. Göksel also explores the cultural differences in entrepreneurship between Europe and North America, aiming to bring best practices across borders to foster a more inclusive global startup environment. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:11 Meet Göksel Turman: Innovator in Entrepreneurship 00:42 The Vision Behind Compendial Technology 01:04 Welcome and Initial Impressions 01:37 Exploring MatchPreneur AI 04:03 The Personal Touch: Göksel's Unique Perspective 06:35 Challenges and Solutions in Entrepreneurship 09:20 Future of Entrepreneurship and Global Perspectives 12:24 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, host Edwin Frondozo welcomes Avery Pennarun, the co-founder and CEO of Tailscale. Avery discusses his journey from a young tech enthusiast to heading a company that reimagines secure networking through a zero-trust, developer-friendly approach. He elaborates on how Tailscale simplifies the process of connecting devices directly, bypassing the complexities and costs associated with traditional network infrastructure. Avery also shares insights into the challenges of transitioning from a technical role to a leadership role and the importance of building a team that can outperform individual capabilities. The episode concludes with Avery receiving a copy of the book 'Future Narrative,' co-authored by Edwin and Paul Newton. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:39 Meet Avery Pennarun: The Reluctant Entrepreneur 01:59 Avery's Experience at Web Summit Vancouver 03:09 The Problem with Secure Networking 08:07 Avery's Journey in Networking 11:36 The Complexity of Modern Technology 13:29 Tail Scale's Mission and Vision 19:58 Advice for Aspiring Business Leaders 21:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, hosted by Edwin Frondozo and recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, creative producer Paul Newton joins the discussion with guest Max So, a Canadian FinTech entrepreneur and CEO of Bravo Rewards. Max shares insights into how Bravo is transforming customer engagement for local businesses through innovative payment and reward systems. By comparing the financial capabilities of giants like Starbucks with the challenges faced by independent restaurants, Max outlines Bravo's strategy to support local businesses by converting foot traffic into lasting relationships and economic growth. With over 300 Vancouver restaurants and 24,000 users already onboard, Bravo is on a mission to empower local communities, offering a unique alternative to multinational chains. Max also provides advice to other entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of solving real-world problems with valuable solutions. The episode emphasizes community support and local business sustainability in an era dominated by large corporations. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:40 Meet Max So: FinTech Innovator 02:18 Challenges in the Restaurant Industry 05:40 Bravo Rewards: A Game Changer 10:45 The Vision for Local Businesses 20:12 Empowering Canadian Consumers 21:24 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, host Edwin Frondozo and creative producer Paul Newton discuss with Soyoung Lee, co-founder of Twelve Labs, about the revolutionary strides her company is making in AI and video understanding. Twelve Labs is developing multimodal foundation models to make video searchable and accessible, solving the significant challenge of efficiently retrieving specific moments from video footage. The conversation covers the company's approach to handling complex video data, the intersection of machine learning and creative applications, and the importance of understanding customer needs in the tech development process. Soyoung shares her personal motivations and the impact of video in learning and storytelling, emphasizing the human aspect of technology in creating value. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:36 Meet Soyoung Lee: Innovator in AI Video Understanding 02:04 The Problem with Video Search 03:21 Personal and Business Applications of AI Video Understanding 05:27 Unique Perspectives and Challenges in Video AI 07:11 The Human Element in AI Development 13:23 Advice for Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders 14:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, host Edwin Frondozo and creative producer Paul Newton of the Future Narrator miniseries record live from Web Summit Vancouver 2025. They welcome Rob Safrata, CEO of Fuse Power Management and a noted triple bottom line entrepreneur. Rob discusses his journey in transforming traditional businesses into sustainable leaders, his philosophy of profit, people, and planet working in harmony, and his approach to electrification and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. He also shares insights on servant and cause leadership, emphasizing the importance of having a purpose beyond oneself in driving meaningful change. The episode highlights Rob's innovative strategies and heartfelt commitment to sustainability and leadership, making it a must-listen for entrepreneurs and business leaders. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:36 Meet Rob Safrata: Sustainability Pioneer 01:29 Insights from Web Summit Vancouver 2025 02:55 The Vision Behind Fuse Power Management 05:12 The Future of Sustainable Energy 08:07 Rob Safrata's Leadership Philosophy 16:36 Advice for Business Leaders 18:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, host Edwin Frondozo and Dr. Paul Newton, creative producer of the Future Narrator miniseries, speak with Craig Attiwill, the founder and CEO of Peloton Technologies. Craig shares insights on how his company is transforming the payments landscape for small and medium-sized businesses in Canada. With a background in engineering and extensive experience in both public and private sectors, Craig discusses the challenges and innovations of creating a unified, secure, and user-friendly payments platform. He also emphasizes the importance of high-performing teams, mentorship, and maintaining a positive work environment. The episode concludes with Craig offering advice to entrepreneurs and business leaders on resilience and perseverance in the face of industry challenges. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:38 Meet Craig Addiewell: Revolutionizing Canadian FinTech 01:54 The Journey to Peloton Technologies 03:07 Challenges and Innovations in Business Payments 06:19 Building High-Performing Teams 10:57 Transformative Impact on Businesses 16:13 Final Thoughts and Advice for Business Leaders 17:04 Closing Remarks

This episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, explores the transformative potential of AI with guest Natalie Monbiot, a pioneer in the virtual human economy. Natalie discusses her journey from co-founding one of the first AI avatar companies to her current work on AI twins designed to empower rather than replace humans. The conversation explores the ethical implications, the role of AI in augmenting human ingenuity, and the importance of preserving personal cognitive abilities. Key topics include the evolution of AI applications, the cultural impacts of AI-driven changes, and how leaders can harness AI for organizational benefit while safeguarding individual creativity and wisdom. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:38 Meet Natalie Monbiot: Pioneering Pro-Human AI 02:01 Natalie's Journey in AI and Web Summit Reflections 03:56 The Concept of the Virtual Human Economy 09:17 Ethical AI and Trustworthiness 13:45 The Future of AI and Human Creativity 21:14 Final Thoughts on AI and Business Leadership

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, host Edwin Frondozo sits down with Sarah Graham, co-founder of Light One and winner of the Web Summit Vancouver 2025 pitch competition. Sarah discusses Light One's mission to transform the toxic global color and design industry by using microbiome biofabrication to create sustainable pigments. She details the environmental and health impact of synthetic dyes and how Light One aims to address these issues with its innovative microbial dyes. Sarah shares her journey from being a fashion designer to a biodesign entrepreneur, explaining the company's holistic and environmentally conscious approach. She highlights the significance of color in human expression and the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. Sarah also discusses the challenges and opportunities in bringing their technology to market, as well as the importance of having a dedicated team to drive meaningful change. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:49 Meet Sarah Graham: Winner of Web Summit Vancouver Pitch Competition 01:56 The Problem with Synthetic Dyes 03:16 The Birth of Light One 04:22 Microbial Biofabrication: A Sustainable Solution 05:22 Challenges and Opportunities in the Industry 12:57 Sarah's Personal Journey and Passion 18:49 The Future of Sustainable Color 24:16 Final Thoughts and Advice for Innovators

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, host Edwin Frondozo sits down with Anne Hunger, co-founder and Chief Product Officer of GlüxKind Technologies, a Vancouver-based startup revolutionizing mobility for young families. They discuss the development of their groundbreaking smart baby stroller, designed to provide safety and convenience. Anne shares insights from her parenting journey and how this inspired the creation of a motorized, power-assisted stroller. They delve into the impact of inclusive technology on parents, specifically those with physical limitations, and explore its broad potential applications beyond parenting. Anne also shares advice for hardware founders on quick prototyping and iteration to solve real-world problems. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:41 Meet Ann Hunger: Innovating Mobility for Young Families 02:52 The Smart Baby Stroller: Features and Benefits 04:41 Challenges and Innovations in the Stroller Industry 07:02 Expanding the Smart Parenting Ecosystem 08:10 Customer Experiences and Market Reach 10:46 Technical Difficulties and Resuming the Interview 23:02 Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, host Edwin Frondozo and creative producer Paul Newton speak with Carlyn Loncaric, the CEO and founder of AquaEye. Aqua Eye is a handheld sonar device that utilizes AI to assist first responders in quickly locating individuals missing in the water. Carlyn, with her background in engineering and over a decade of experience as a lifeguard, emphasizes the critical need for rapid and effective water rescue technologies. She explains the functionality of AquaEye and its significant impact on reducing search times, as well as its use in varied environments from lakes to oceans. The conversation highlights the journey of AquaEye from concept to a globally adopted device used by entities such as the US Navy Seals and Border Patrol. Carlyn also shares insights on the importance of steadfast belief in one's ideas and the push for broader awareness and distribution of AquaEye to save more lives. 00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast 00:41 Meet Carlin, CEO and Founder of Aqua Eye 01:26 The Problem with Traditional Water Rescue 03:34 Aqua Eye's Impact and Success Stories 05:33 Carlin's Journey and Vision for Aqua Eye 11:18 Technological Innovations and Future Plans 13:44 Spreading Awareness and Fundraising Efforts 17:30 Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs 18:34 Conclusion and Farewell